Gamma rays are electromagnetic waves with short wavelengths that have strong penetrating power and can penetrate most common substances, achieving non-invasive detection of substances. This characteristic has made gamma ray technology widely used in geological exploration, coal mine exploration, and industrial testing.

1. Application of Gamma Ray in Coal Identification

The influence of radioactive elements in coal

Coal usually contains natural radioactive elements such as uranium, thorium, potassium, etc. The deposition and distribution of these elements in coal can affect the gamma spectrum of coal.
By measuring the gamma spectrum of coal, the distribution and thickness of coal seams can be quickly and accurately identified.

Gamma ray detection method

Artificial gamma ray detection method: The early method used was to place artificial radiation sources and radioactive detectors below the top coal, and calculate the thickness of the top coal by measuring the corresponding relationship between the intensity of reflected gamma rays and the thickness of the top coal. However, this method is limited by the penetration ability of gamma rays, and the detection accuracy is greatly affected by the inclusion of gangue in the coal seam. At the same time, artificial radiation sources have radioactivity, which is not conducive to underground safety management.
Natural gamma ray detection method: Based on natural gamma radiation (NGR) detection technology, the attenuation intensity of gamma rays emitted by radioactive elements in the roof rock after penetrating the coal seam is used to determine the thickness of the coal seam. This method does not require manual radiation sources and is a non-contact detection method with convenient sensor management. It can detect large areas, but it is not suitable for roof and floor working faces without radioactive elements and coal seams with too many inclusions.

2. Application of Gamma Ray in Rock Identification

Differences in rock composition and structure

There are significant differences in composition and structure among different types of rocks, which can affect their gamma ray radiation intensity and gamma energy spectrum.
By measuring the gamma ray intensity and gamma spectrum characteristics in rocks, different types of rocks can be identified.

Application of Gamma Ray Technology

Gamma ray technology can penetrate the surface of rocks and obtain information on their internal composition, providing important basis for rock exploration.
In rock exploration, rapid and accurate identification of different types of rocks can be achieved by measuring gamma spectra and radiation intensity.



Gamma ray technology plays an important role in coal and rock identification. By measuring gamma spectra and radiation intensity, rapid and accurate identification of coal and rock can be achieved. In coal identification, natural gamma ray detection method has been widely used due to its advantages such as no need for artificial radiation sources and non-contact detection; In rock identification, gamma ray technology can penetrate the surface of rocks to obtain internal composition information, providing important support for rock exploration. With the continuous development of technology, the application prospects of gamma rays in coal and rock identification will be even broader.